Animals, between business and the quest for meaning

Animals are an integral part of the daily lives of many French people. Pets, or wild animals, man is more attached than ever to animal welfare. In France, according to Royal Canin France, there are many pets: 14.2 million cats, and 7.6 million dogs. France, on the other hand, is not a good student when it comes to abandoning animals, which are among the European countries that abandon their pets the most. An unfortunate finding, in a changing society on animal rights.

Animal rights, a spotlight in business

Animal rights are unknown to many French people. However, despite this, many have already seen clips from associations like L214. The latter fights for animal protection, particularly in farms and in environments such as slaughterhouses. It does not hesitate to broadcast explicit and difficult-to-watch videos to raise awareness as much as possible. Battery farming is thus a practice that many companies decry, favouring outdoor breeding, better for animals. At the same time, some French people are turning to limiting food alternatives, even suppressing meat consumption. An evolution of behaviours relating to personal convictions, but also to a real sensitivity of animal welfare. As a result, many companies are turning to making vegetarian and even vegan dishes to satisfy these new consumers.

According to an IPSOS study carried out in June 2020, animal welfare is important to the French, but few really know the rights of animals and the penalties that owners face if they do not respect them. “Almost all French people (95%) agrees that an animal has rights. Better yet, almost two-thirds are convinced (63%).” Beyond that, less than one in two French people know the consequences of the January 2015 law, which recognizes the animal as “a sentient living being”. Indeed, the majority of pet owners limit animal welfare to the daily supply of food, but do not think about daily outings, caresses, or visits to the vet. This last point is less systematic with cat owners or NAC (New Pets) such as rodents.

The animal, an important partner even in business

If animals are also appreciated in France, it is above all for the well-being that they provide. 68% of pet owners consider their dog or cat to be part of the family. Some structures even offer to appease vulnerable people with pets. Cyotherapy helps to relieve mental disabilities, to bring tenderness to the elderly or in distress. More broadly, zootherapy also finds its place within companies. Since 2013, near Bordeaux, the association AZAE (Association of Zootherapy for Autonomy and Awakening) offers mediation by the animal. Through equitherapy, for example, people can be soothed by the spontaneity and lack of judgment of the animal. It is an excellent, natural and successful therapy. These associations not only provide solutions and satisfaction to the people who benefit from them, but also attachment to animals.

At the same time, the presence of animals in the workplace is becoming more democratized and evolving. Widespread in the United States, this phenomenon is developing in France, where many employees or business leaders take their pets to the office. Indeed, many do not want to leave their companion alone during the day. Laws regulate the presence of pets in the workplace, particularly in health facilities (excluding therapy animals), public administrations or food-providing facilities. Some dogs, such as first-class attack dogs, are also banned for safety reasons. On the other hand, there is nothing to prevent the presence of an animal in the workplace, as long as its employer and employees do not object. Taking your pet with you reduces stress, improves concentration and promotes interactions between colleagues.

Animal welfare, the struggle of Bordeaux companies

Businesses do everything they can to defend animal health and welfare. This is the case, for example, of the French company CEVA. Specializing in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry, it is one of the 10 largest groups in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry worldwide. Today, it is present in many countries and offers treatments for animals around the world to treat the various diseases that affect them. It also has a centre dedicated to the search for treatment for new diseases. This company also educates all pet owners to take care of them, to ensure their well-being. For the latter, many companies are developing, to meet new needs. Animal taxis, animal wardens all over France and more and more specialized veterinary clinics are born. These are services that the French are receptive to, even if they do not always use these companies.

We are therefore witnessing a half-hearted awareness, between a concern related to abandonment or animal abuse, without clearly understanding the legal consequences. Behaviour changes, but there is still work to be done. However, the animal-related sector is evolving and diversifying to offer furry services.

Sources:

AZAE

Canine therapy: more than just a fashion phenomenon – Gublog

Bringing your dog to the office: what does the law say?

The benefits of animals at work

Animals in business: a real factor of cohesion

Ceva Animal Health

The French and their pets

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